World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka defends her Dubai withdrawal, citing injury and schedule strain, backed by players like Coco Gauff.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka dismissed criticism over her last-minute withdrawal from the Dubai Championships, calling the backlash "ridiculous" and questioning tournament organizers' support for player welfare. She cited a minor hip injury and the grueling 11-month tennis schedule as reasons for skipping the event, expressing doubt about returning. Sabalenka, who recently won Indian Wells, emphasized prioritizing health ahead of major tournaments. Fellow players, including Coco Gauff, backed her, highlighting the physical toll of the current schedule.